28-05-2025
Inside tiny UK village where cars are BANNED, donkeys make deliveries & you must pay entry – but drivers love visiting
A VILLAGE in the South of England offers the perfect tranquil getaway - with donkeys and sledges instead of cars.
It is one of few places in Europe that has a total ban on cars, as its steep topography makes it impossible to drive there.
5
5
5
Clovelly Village in North Devon offers visitors a unique trip, with its historic way of life offering a reprieve from daily annoyances.
Home to around 440 people, the remote village boasts cobbled streets, medieval-style properties, and no chain stores.
The village was previously owned by both the Queen and William the Conquerer - although it is now privately owned by John Rous after he inherited from his mother in 1983.
The Hamlyn family have managed the village since 1738, as it was largely "unknown to the outside world" according to the village's official website.
Its unique setting gives visitors the opportunity to travel back in time through a location steeped in maritime history.
For those looking to escape modern life, Clovelly is one of few places in Europe that enforces a blanket ban on road vehicles.
Historically, donkeys were responsible for transporting goods to the town although locals have mostly relied on sledges since the 1970s.
There are, however, still a group of donkeys living at the top of the village.
Its stunning coastal walks include a pebbled beach, a Lifeboat House, stunning sea views, as well as a waterfall.
To explore further, visitors can embark on a boat trip around the bay, a chartered fishing trip, or take a boat to Lundy Island.
The English holiday resort that families say is a 'fancy Center Parcs'
For those looking to keep their feet firmly planted ashore, the picturesque village has the Court Gardens, which contains Victorian greenhouses, and the 12th-century All Saints Church.
There is also a hotel with a restaurant, a tea room, and two museums to keep visitors entertained.
Rather than the usual chain stores, the village shops are all independent, selling silk, pottery, soap and shoes.
Depending on when you go to the village, you could visit its annual festivals, including the Seaweed Festival, the Lobster and Crab Festival, or the Herring Festival.
Its also rumoured to be the home of a cave where Merlin, the magician of Arthurian legend, was born.
Visitors can access the village through the visitor centre which charges £9.50 for adults, and £5.50 for children.
Funds raised from the charges goes towards local tree planting and conservation, helping to maintain the area.
5
5
Its website reads: "There has always been a charge to visit Clovelly.
"Like most historical landmarks (e.g. National Trust sites), we heavily rely on entrance fees for the essential maintenance and upkeep that comes with an ancient village perched on a 400 foot cliff, with no vehicular access."
Those driving to the village can also use the free parking included with the ticket price.
